Many times, we go through difficult situations and can be tempted to believe that we are alone in our struggles. When we pray and we don't feel like God is answering us in the way or in the time we thought He might, it is easy to believe He is not listening. When we expect others to rally around us, and we look around and see no one there in that moment, we can feel like we are walking this road alone. When our faith gives way to doubt, fear, or confusion, we often feel a sense of shame as if we are not a good enough Christian. I want you to know that your Father sees you. In your struggle, He sees you. In your loneliness, He sees you. In your doubt or fear or confusion, He sees you. When you get angry, He sees you. More than that, though. He is with you. He will not abandon you. When others are not there, He still is. The Holy Spirit is within you and there to comfort you and give you peace. Your questions do not offend Him, nor will they cause Him to forsake you. He loves you and accepts you, questions, doubts, fears, and all. Talk to Him about them. He already knows. You will not shock Him. In the midst of hurt, disappointment, loss, and confusion, your Father is there to reassure you that this temporary situation will not have the final word. He will. He will somehow bring good into even the worst circumstances. He who turned the death of Jesus into the promise of the resurrection has not lost His power to take even the worst tragedy and bring it into the light of His love and power. I am praying for you today as you read this. May you sense His love and His presence with you even now. Pastor Charlie